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Overview
The New York Red Bulls are a professional soccer team based in Harrison, New Jersey, playing their home games at Red Bull Arena. The team is owned by Red Bull GmbH, an Austrian-based energy drink company, and has been a part of Major League Soccer (MLS) since 1996. The Red Bulls are one of the most successful teams in MLS history, with a strong fan base and a commitment to developing young players through their academy system.
The team's name and branding are closely tied to the Red Bull energy drink company, which has a significant presence in the United States. The team's logo features a red bull's head, and their home stadium is named after the company. Despite the team's association with a multinational corporation, the Red Bulls have developed a strong sense of community and identity in the New York metropolitan area.
The Red Bulls have a rich history in MLS, with a number of notable players and coaches contributing to the team's success over the years. The team has won several division titles and has appeared in the MLS Cup playoffs numerous times. In 2017, the Red Bulls won their first Supporters' Shield, awarded to the team with the best regular season record in MLS.
History/Background
The New York Red Bulls were founded in 1996 as the New York/New Jersey MetroStars, playing their home games at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The team was one of the original 10 teams in MLS and played under the MetroStars name until 2006, when the team was rebranded as the New York Red Bulls. The team's name change was part of a broader effort to rebrand the team and appeal to a wider audience in the New York metropolitan area.
In 2010, the Red Bulls moved to their current home stadium, Red Bull Arena, which was built in Harrison, New Jersey. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 25,000 and features a state-of-the-art playing surface and amenities. The Red Bulls have invested heavily in their stadium and training facilities, with a focus on creating a world-class experience for players and fans.
Key Information
* Notable Players: Thierry Henry, Tim Cahill, Dax McCarty, Sacha Kljestan, Bradley Wright-Phillips
* Notable Coaches: Bob Bradley, Hans Backe, Mike Petke, Jesse Marsch
* Awards and Honors: Supporters' Shield (2017), MLS Cup Playoffs (2008, 2010, 2012, 2015, 2017)
* Stadium: Red Bull Arena (2010-present)
* Training Facility: Red Bull Training Facility (2010-present)
Significance
The New York Red Bulls are one of the most successful teams in MLS history, with a strong commitment to developing young players and a loyal fan base. The team's association with the Red Bull energy drink company has helped to establish a strong brand identity and has provided significant resources for the team's development. The Red Bulls have also played a significant role in promoting soccer in the New York metropolitan area, with a focus on creating a positive and inclusive experience for fans.